Ashoka

  • Botanical Name: Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Willd.
  • Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
  • Synonyms: Sokanasa, Vishoka, Vanjula, Madhu-pushpa, Apsoka
  • Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Ashoka” in Hindi, “Sorrowless Tree” in
    English, and “Asogam” in Tamil.
  • Classification: A small, evergreen tree belonging to the Fabaceae family.
  • Habitat: Native to the Indian subcontinent, including India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It
    thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, often found in rainforests and well-drained soils.
  • Morphology: A handsome tree, growing up to 25–30 feet in height. It has dark green,
    glossy leaves that are coppery-red when young. The flowers are fragrant, orange-yellow, and
    turn red before wilting. The fruits are flat, leathery pods containing 4–8 seeds.
  • Useful Parts: Bark, flowers, seeds, and leaves.
  • Chemical Composition: Contains tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and sterols.
    The bark is rich in catechins and epicatechins.
  • Pharmacological Action: Known for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, uterine tonic, and
    analgesic properties. It is widely used in treating menstrual disorders, uterine bleeding, and
    skin ailments.
  • Formulation: Used in Ayurvedic preparations like Ashokarishta, Ashoka Ghrita, and
    herbal tonics for female reproductive health.
    Rasa: Kasaya, Tikta
    Guna: Ruksha , Laghu
    Virya: Sheeta
    Vipaka: Katu